An unfortunate road incident has left a community in shock after an elderly driver accidentally caused the death of a pedestrian while attempting to avoid a collision.
Attempt to Avoid Accident Ends in Tragedy
Irene Bell, 80, was driving her Range Rover Vogue when she veered onto the pavement to prevent hitting a caravan.
Unfortunately, this maneuver resulted in her striking Keith Maxwell Wilson, who was walking nearby.
Despite efforts from paramedics who arrived swiftly at the scene, Mr. Maxwell Wilson tragically lost his life on-site.
Court Appearance and Admission of Guilt
Bell, a resident of Dykenook in Hexham, recently appeared before Newcastle Magistrates Court, where she pleaded guilty to causing death by careless driving.
The court heard that she had tried to steer away from the caravan, failing to notice Mr. Maxwell Wilson until it was too late.
Eyewitness Account
Paul Coulson, the prosecutor, presented a witness statement in court.
The witness described traveling along the A696 in Northumberland on June 15 when they noticed Bell’s black Range Rover mounting the pavement behind the caravan.
Sadly, this was the moment when Mr. Maxwell Wilson was struck while walking toward a nearby pub.
Driver’s Reaction and Emotional Aftermath
According to the witness, Bell appeared distraught following the incident, visibly shaken and holding her hands to her face.
She was overheard saying, “I couldn’t stop, so I mounted the kerb to avoid the caravan.”
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Magistrates have adjourned the case to allow for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.
Bell was granted unconditional bail and is scheduled to return to court on May 8, when her full mitigation will be presented before sentencing.
This deeply distressing case has left both families and the local community mourning the loss of Mr. Maxwell Wilson, while the court now prepares to determine an appropriate outcome for Bell’s actions.